An interview with Sina Solouksaran, International mountain biking legend, who in 2011, was on his way to representing Iran at the Asian Mountain Bike Continental Championships in China, when he was kicked off the team for nothing more than admission to belonging to a non-Muslim Faith.

“I wanted to race for my country, for the sport of Mountain Bike Racing, not for a religion”

Leaving his family behind, and assuming refugee status, Sina found himself in Turkey, able to race, but prohibited from racing for his country. He has not seen them for 3 years and he recently missed his Sister’s wedding. With no American Embassy in Iran, this situation shows little chance of changing in the future.

Still a refugee, Sina’s path has led him from Turkey, to Seattle and now to Denver.

Officially supported by Giant Bicycles in the US, and ironically by Giant Turkey, he has managed to podium in many of Colorado’s premium Mountain Bike Pro Races, but all of those victories come without the all-important UCI points (Cycling’s World Governing body). Lack of points mean that Sina starts races at the back of the starting grid and sponsors are not attracted without results. Without sponsor support, specifically equipment and travel support, he is stuck in a vicious circle.

If his tenacity, courage and determination don’t prove that he has the mettle to be the World Champion Sina knows he can be, the world of Mountain Bike Racing is the loser.